REDDITCH United Ladies had to show all of their renowned grit and determination to come from behind and seal a crucial 3-2 victory at Gornal which leaves them as hot favourites to claim the West Midlands Regional Women’s League Division One South title.
Maximum points from Sunday’s encounter made it a perfect ten wins from as many league games this season for Gary Barrell’s table-topping Reds, who are now three points above second placed Gornal with a game in hand and a superior goal difference.
However, the visitors were certainly given a scare as they fell 1-0 behind to Sarah Lojko’s superb strike and then 2-1 down to a set piece goal shortly before half time following Ellie Gerhold’s equaliser.
After a frank half time discussion led by the players, Redditch were improved in the second half and drew level 20 minutes from time when Sofi Liperis’ clinical strike capped a fine move.
Gornal stepped up the pressure as they sought to take the lead for the third time, but it was the Reds who prevailed when Gerhold netted from the penalty spot late on after Livvi Ashfield’s shirt had been pulled to halt a pacy counter-attack.
Next up for the Reds is Sunday’s Worcestershire derby at third placed Kidderminster Harriers and boss Barrell is sure another stern challenge awaits.
“Harriers are in great form and will look to build upon recent results in their debut season in this division,” said Barrell.
“However, we’ve been working hard as always at training and are fully prepared for this test.
“The Gornal game was a great result for a Redditch side which again featured only four players aged over 18.
“The squad are learning very quickly how tough this league is and are making rapid progress as a squad that commit everything to their team-mates.
“We’d like to thank AG Cranes Ltd for becoming our first ever away kit sponsor, allowing the ladies to wear the Redditch United badge on an away match day for the first time this season.”
